Major changes planned for Garden State Parkway in Toms River area

Major changes are coming to the parkway on a busy section in Ocean County in the Tom's River area. But before that half billion dollar project, it's underway. The Turnpike Commission wants to hear from you. News 12 Jim Murdoch is live just off exit 82 in Tom's River with a look at what exactly is going on, Jim. Good afternoon, Della. Well, this section of parkway behind me has long been known for violent crashes, frequent traffic backups and a time just an absolute nightmare to drive through. The speed limit through here drops down to 55 MPH and three back to back interchanges often leaves folks weaving in and out of traffic, all while dodging other drivers moving well above to well below the posted speed limit. It's about a three mile long stretch of parkway connecting some of the busiest areas in Ocean County. So the plans call for a new southbound entrance ramp and northbound exit ramp and interchange 80 relocating the exit 81 southbound exit ramp and adding extra roads and lanes to help navigate the three interchanges. 12 ft wide left and right shoulders and travel lanes are all part of the major plan. So the process all starts with your input and you can let the Turnpike Commission know your thoughts by attending a meeting next week. One week from tonight that will get underway at six p.m. At the Ocean County Library downtown Tom's River branch over on Washington Street. It will be at that meeting where the full scope of this project will be unveiled. We'll have much more coming up a little bit later on. For now, we are live just off exit 82 in Tom's River. I'm Jim Murdoch News 12 New Jersey.